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On 28 February 2025, Japan’s Cabinet announced significant plans to introduce a Bill to promote research, development, and practical application of artificial intelligence technologies. The legislation focuses on transparency, protection of rights, and international cooperation.
South Korea’s new Bill DD20131 (Ai Basic Act) establishes a framework for ethical AI development, emphasising safety, reliability, and human dignity. It mandates strategic AI plans and promotes voluntary certification, setting a global standard for responsible AI governance.
South Korea has taken a groundbreaking step in the regulation and ethical management of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies.
On 17 December 2024, the nation’s Committee of Science and Technology Information Broadcasting and Communications approved the Bill on Development of Artificial Intelligence and Establishment of Trust-Based Foundations (Bill DD20131).
This legislation is not just a policy adjustment; it marks a comprehensive approach to addressing the challenges and responsibilities AI poses in modern society.
The Bill includes 19 previous legislative efforts into one cohesive framework designed to promote responsible AI development. Its stated purpose is to safeguard the rights, dignity, and interests of the South Korean people while laying down the groundwork for fostering AI innovation.
One of the most important terms introduced in the Bill is "high-impact artificial intelligence." This refers to AI systems that could potentially pose risks to human life, physical safety, or fundamental rights.
Examples include AI applications in sectors like energy supply, food production, medical device development, nuclear material management, and biometric data analysis.
This focus on "high-impact AI" reflects a forward-thinking approach to technology, balancing innovation with safety. By defining this term clearly, the Bill sets the stage for targeted regulation without stifling other areas of AI development.
Chapter 2 of the Bill outlines a detailed plan for ensuring the ethical development of AI. Under the proposed framework, the Minister for Science and ICT is required to devise and implement a national Artificial Intelligence Basic Plan every three years.
This plan will guide the nation’s strategic direction in AI, addressing not only technology and industry growth but also the legal and ethical considerations of integrating AI into society.
The Basic Plan will focus on fostering a "healthy AI society," including initiatives to establish principles of AI ethics. These principles will emphasise safety, reliability, and accessibility while ensuring AI development aligns with human prosperity and dignity. By embedding these values into policy, South Korea is positioning itself as a global leader in ethical AI governance.
One of the standout features of the Bill is its emphasis on trust-building measures. The legislation enables the government to promote projects that encourage voluntary verification and certification of AI systems.
Organisations developing AI technologies can participate in these projects, which include creating guidelines and standards for safe and reliable AI.
This approach not only ensures accountability but also fosters collaboration between the government and private sector. By encouraging voluntary participation, South Korea aims to set a global example of how regulatory bodies and industries can work together to achieve common goals.
At its core, the Bill aims to boost South Korea's national competitiveness in the global AI race. The emphasis on an AI Basic Plan underscores the country’s commitment to being at the forefront of technological innovation.
The inclusion of ethical guidelines and a trust-based framework ensures that this growth does not come at the expense of human values or safety.
South Korea’s Bill DD20131 is more than just national legislation—it signals the country's ambition to lead globally in the ethical development of AI.
By addressing the dual imperatives of innovation and responsibility, South Korea has set a new benchmark for AI governance. This could serve as a model for other nations grappling with similar challenges in the AI-driven age.
As the world watches, South Korea’s actions might well shape the future discourse on how societies can harness the power of AI responsibly and equitably.
On 28 February 2025, Japan’s Cabinet announced significant plans to introduce a Bill to promote research, development, and practical application of artificial intelligence technologies. The legislation focuses on transparency, protection of rights, and international cooperation.
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